Authorities in Alabama have closed the investigation into the shocking case of August Borden, a high school football player who suffered severe head injuries during an incident on campus earlier this summer.
The Madison County District Attorney’s Office announced that no criminal charges will be filed, concluding that the event was a “freak, unfortunate accident” and not an act of violence or bullying.
The 16-year-old was airlifted to a hospital on August 19 after collapsing near his school’s weight room, sustaining a serious concussion, orbital fractures beneath both eyes, and a skull fracture behind his sinus cavity, according to his parents.
Officials say incident was a tragic accident, not an attack
During a press conference this week, District Attorney Robert Broussard stated that investigators found no evidence of criminal behavior or intent.
“We’ve learned that this was typical high school banter and limited physical contact, with no anger or malice involved,” Broussard explained.
“It was a freak accident that led to tragic injuries.”
The DA added: “This case is closed as far as the criminal justice system goes.”
What happened the day of the incident
Chief Deputy District Attorney Tim Gann detailed that August and another teammate, with whom he had a friendly relationship, were leaving the workout facility while joking and talking.
As they walked, the other student reportedly gave August a “bear hug” from behind.
Moments later, August coughed, made a strange sound, and then collapsed.
Witnesses said he lost consciousness, slipping off a six-inch stair landing and hitting his face on the ground as he fell, PEOPLE reports.
“At that point, he was completely unconscious and unable to protect himself,” Gann said.
“He fell full force, face-first, and immediately began seizing.”
Coaches and school staff quickly performed CPR and called 911. First responders stabilized the teen before he was airlifted to the hospital for emergency treatment.
Family questions the Official Findings
Despite the district attorney’s conclusion, August’s parents, Kristen Van Devender and Jason Borden, remain skeptical.
“When you look at the photos and all the evidence we have, to say there was absolutely no foul play, it doesn’t line up,” Jason told AL.com. “It’s very shocking.”
Attorneys Kristin K. Stamps and Shane Sears, representing the family, issued a statement saying the Bordens “continue to seek truth, accountability, and transparency” and are committed to finding “honesty and integrity at every stage of the process.”
Kristen recalled racing to the school after being told her son had a fall. “It was chaos,” she told PEOPLE.
“A living nightmare.”
The family previously claimed doctors told them August’s injuries were “not consistent with a fall.”
However, Deputy DA Gann responded that while the injuries could resemble those seen in assaults, evidence showed no such act occurred. “There is absolutely no evidence that supports that theory,” Gann said.
School district continues its own investigation
Although the criminal probe has concluded, Tuscumbia City Schools Superintendent Russ Tate confirmed that an internal investigation is still ongoing with the help of outside legal counsel.
“With law enforcement’s portion complete, our attorney can now continue without risk of interference,” Tate said. “We remain committed to seeing this process through.”Officials said the review could take several weeks, with findings to be presented to the school board.
As August continues his recovery, his family asks for continued prayers and support, and for answers they still feel they haven’t received.